ETSX-70 Rear suspension

I have read nothing but rave reviews on the ETSX frame. However, I have also read about it's flexin' rear end. Was this addressed on the 2004 model? What exactly is this flex being spoke of and how does it effect the bike?

the ETSX phantom flex issue...

Originally Posted by k0zu

Yep...sounds right...I spoke with them today about it and you are correct. Thanks for the feedback though

I own and have ridden an ETSX since 2002. I have never experienced any flex. However
I weigh only 165 lbs. Apparently the ones experiencing flex were heavy weights. The
upper rear pivots have since been changed to a clevis style connection, increasing
lateral rigidity.

part of the reason the flew was reported by mag reviews were that they had a pre-production bike. the production bikes all had beefier links so that's why you don't hear of owners complaining about flex.

I demo'd a 2003 ETSX50 for a short ride and didn't feel the flex the reviews mention.

They did change the way the rear swingarm is bolted to the linkage for 04 though.

My LBS is willing the last pc of the 03 ETSX70 at a very good price. So should I take it. Is there a lot of flex? I like the RAD oval tubing, looks very strong. Is this bike good for climbing? I have an element 70, very difficult to climb and bobs alot.

how much of a discount?

How well does it climb? The 2003 ETSX-70 won the TransAlp Challenge.
Does it flex? Not for me and a lot of others.
Does it bob? Get your pressures and rebound dialed in and you won't notice any.
2003 vs 2004.
2003 has a stronger front triangle...different tubing and a 100mm fork.
2004 stiffer rear upper linkage...uses clevis pivot points and a propedal shock + 125mm fork.
In the end it's up to you to fully test ride it but I'd go for a discounted 2003.

My LBS is willing the last pc of the 03 ETSX70 at a very good price. So should I take it. Is there a lot of flex? I like the RAD oval tubing, looks very strong. Is this bike good for climbing? I have an element 70, very difficult to climb and bobs alot.

Thanks.

your element should be a better climber than the etsx. maybe you should look into getting the element set-up right.